Nikol Pashinyan Seeks Armenia's Expulsion from CSTO Alliance

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan informed parliament that Armenia's interest in the Collective Security Treaty Organization has run its course, expressing a preference for the country's expulsion from the alliance. While presenting the government's 2026-2031 program, Pashinyan indicated that Armenia does not intend to increase its participation in the organization over the next five years. He remained vague regarding potential security alternatives, such as NATO or closer ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Collective Security Treaty Organization Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov cautioned against anticipating Armenia's withdrawal, suggesting that the views of the Armenian leadership might differ from those of the general population. Masadykov noted that decisions regarding membership or expulsion are reserved for the heads of member states.

It remains uncertain if the issue will be formally addressed at the Collective Security Council meeting scheduled for November in Moscow. Masadykov stated that the Secretariat cannot make decisions on behalf of member states and urged others not to anticipate events.